8 Best Ways for Tourists to Get Around Dubai

Dubai, with its towering skyscrapers, busy malls, and thrilling water parks, is a tourist’s paradise. To explore this vibrant city, you need to know the best ways to get around. Whether you’re heading to Burj Khalifa or Palm Jumeirah, Dubai offers various transportation options that are easy to navigate. In this guide, I will tell you the eight best ways for tourists to get around in UAE, ensuring your visit is both enjoyable and budget-friendly.

1. Taxi

When it comes to exploring Dubai, taxis are a convenient and affordable mode of transport. They are readily available, and you can either pre-book them or hail one down on the street. All UAE taxis are metered, with fares typically starting at AED 5 and increasing by around AED 20 per kilometer. Additionally, taxis with pink roofs are driven by females and can accommodate all family members.

Getting to and from the airport is easy with the availability of taxis outside the terminals. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, you can book a private airport transfer but they are a little more expensive than a local taxi.

Remember, Taxi rates are higher in peak hours,  especially in the evening. In this case, you can consider using ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem for affordability.

2. Dubai Bus

Dubai’s buses operate 24/7, making them a reliable means of transportation. They run at regular intervals, typically every 10 to 15 minutes. To travel on a bus, you’ll need to get a Nol card, with journey prices starting at AED 2. Buses depart from every airport terminal and cover the city’s main neighborhoods and tourist attractions, making it easy for you to explore.

Additionally, you can have a Dubai tour on a sightseeing bus that offers a unique sightseeing experience. This tour allows you to explore the key attractions at your own pace, providing live commentary and the flexibility to check out at various stops.

3. Metro – World’s Largest Driverless Train System

Dubai’s metro system is not only one of the most popular ways to travel around the city but also the largest driverless train system globally. The Red Line starts at Rashidiya Station, just south of DXB International Airport, and runs close to the coast, with stations near top attractions like the Palm Jumeirah. The Green Line, on the other hand, begins at Etisalat Station and loops around to Al Jaddaf.

To make your metro journeys seamless, check out Metro timings and consider purchasing a Nol card. Trains depart at least every 10 minutes and even more frequently during rush hours.

4. Tram

One of the recent additions to the public transport system is the Dubai tram. This street-level tram system has 11 stations and is one of the most affordable ways to explore the city. Key attractions along the tram’s route include Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Media City.

5. Palm Monorail

For those planning to visit Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis, The Palm, the Palm Monorail is the way to go. You can access it by leaving the metro at Palm Jumeirah Tram Station and following the footbridge to Gateway Station. This four-stop, three-mile route takes you up the trunk of Palm Island, stopping off at Al Ittihad Park Station, Nakheel Mall Station, and terminating at Atlantis Aquaventure Station. A one-way journey costs AED 20, and a return is AED 30, with departures every 15 minutes between 9 am and 10 pm.

6. Bicycle

Dubai is becoming an increasingly bike-friendly city, with numerous urban bike paths and bike rental stations. You can find BYKY stations on curbsides around the city, making it easy to collect a bike for a day of exploration. Jumeirah Beach also offers bike rentals, allowing you to ride along the coastal areas.

If you’re up for a longer ride, consider the Al Qudra cycling track just outside the city. It’s a 53-mile-long track with breathtaking desert views.

7. Boat

Dubai’s public transport isn’t confined to land; you can also explore the city by water. The Ferry offers scenic journeys along the coastline, with stops including Marina. Prices start at AED 15, and ferries depart from Al Jaddaf station at various times daily.

For a more traditional experience, take an abra, a wooden boat, across Dubai Creek for AED 1. It’s a delightful way to cross the historic part of the city.

8. Private Car

If you’re planning to explore areas beyond Dubai city, renting a private car is a great option. Dubai’s well-maintained roads make it easy to navigate, but you should be prepared for ongoing construction and traffic. Finding parking can be challenging, so be sure to consider this when renting a car.

Don’t forget that you’ll need an international driver’s license to drive in Dubai and also make sure you have installed a Salik tag and have enough funds in your Salik balance.

Conclusion

Dubai offers a diverse range of transportation options, ensuring that tourists can comfortably explore all the city has to offer. Whether you choose taxis, buses, the metro, trams, the Palm Monorail, bicycles, boats, or private cars, you’ll find a convenient and efficient way to experience the beauty and excitement. So, go ahead and immerse yourself in this fascinating city, from the glittering skyscrapers to the golden deserts, knowing that getting around is a breeze.

Dubai is waiting to be explored, and with these eight best ways to get around, you’re all set for an unforgettable tour. Enjoy your time in this amazing city!